Maryland TANF for Single Moms - Financial Help for a Divorced Woman
Staff Contributor
Having a conflict with your co-parent or partner? - Start Neutral Mediation
Raising a child alone in Maryland requires strength and resourcefulness. But you don't have to face the challenges alone. The Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) program, Maryland's TANF program, offers a supportive hand. TCA provides temporary financial assistance, job training opportunities, and valuable resources to empower you on your journey towards stability and a brighter future for yourself and your children.
What is Maryland's TCA Program?
Maryland's TCA program offers temporary financial aid to low-income families with children. It provides monthly cash benefits to help cover essential expenses like rent, utilities, and food. The program also emphasizes helping families achieve self-sufficiency through employment and education resources.
Who Qualifies for Maryland TCA?
To be eligible for Maryland TCA, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or have qualified immigration status: This includes legal permanent residents and qualified aliens.
- Be a Maryland resident: You must live in Maryland and intend to stay in the state.
- Have dependent children: You must have at least one dependent child under 18 (or 19 if attending school full-time) living with you.
- Meet income limits: Your family's gross income (including your income and any income received by dependent children) must fall below the program's income thresholds.
Maryland TCA Income Level Limits
Here's a breakdown of the income limits for TCA eligibility in Maryland (based on figures used to calculate benefits, effective October 1, 2023):
| Family Size |
Maximum Gross Monthly Income** (after allowable deductions)** |
| 1 person (adult and 1 child) |
Not Applicable |
| 2 people (adult and 2 children) |
~$2,300 |
| 3 people (adult and 3 children) |
~$2,700 |
| 4 people (adult and 4 children) |
~$3,100 |
| For families with 5 or more children, add ~$400 per additional child. |
|
Important Notes:
- The exact income limits and benefit amounts are subject to change. Be sure to visit the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) website for the most up-to-date information: dhs.maryland.gov/weathering-tough-times/temporary-cash-assistance
- The figures in the table are estimates based on allowable deductions and may vary slightly depending on your circumstances.
- Maryland TCA does not provide cash assistance for families with only one child under 18.
Maryland TCA Monthly Payment Standard
The exact amount of your TCA benefit will be determined during your application process and is based on your family size and specific needs. However, here's a table outlining the maximum monthly benefit amounts for Maryland TCA:
| Family Size |
Maximum Monthly Benefit |
| 2 people |
$322 |
| 3 people |
$381 |
| 4 people |
$443 |
| 5 people |
$490 |
| 6 people |
$545 |
| For families with 7 or more |
$55 per additional child |
Additional Notes:
- The table shows the highest benefit amounts for each family size. Your actual benefit amount may be lower depending on your circumstances.
- Income limits are subject to change. See previous section for details.
What Does Maryland TCA Offer Beyond Cash Assistance?
- Job Training and Education: The program connects you with job training or educational opportunities to develop skills and qualifications for better-paying jobs. This can help you achieve long-term financial stability.
- Childcare Assistance: Maryland TCA can help cover childcare costs so you can focus on work or training activities without childcare worries.
- Support Services: The program collaborates with community organizations to offer additional support services, such as:
- Food Banks and Pantries
- Housing Assistance
- Health Insurance Assistance
Getting Started with Maryland TCA
If you're a single mom facing financial hardship, Maryland TCA can be a valuable resource. Here's how to get started:
- Visit the Maryland DHS website: The website provides detailed information about TCA eligibility requirements, the application process, and frequently asked questions.
Financial Help for Single Moms and Divorced Women by State:
Warning:
This post is neither financial, health, legal, or personal advice nor a substitute for the advice offered by a professional. These are serious matters, and the help of a professional is recommended as it can impact your future.
